You don’t have to visit a large entertainment venue to see an amazing show by a nationally touring artist. Read about some intimate hot spots off the beaten path that are putting on some high-caliber productions, often in unexpected places.

We talk a lot these days about transforming our region into a better place to live, but it’s sometimes easy to forget how good we have it already. Just look at the incredible arts and entertainment assets that already exist.

Once the object of a city’s ire and disappointment, Rockford’s downtown arena is enjoying a new lease on life. With a new name, a new team, a new attitude and some early successes, the former MetroCentre is well on its way toward a winning season.